With the Fourth of July just days away, many people have plans to attend fireworks displays, barbecues and parties. While these activities can be fun, they can also be quite dangerous. Whether you are cooking out, camping, taking a boating trip or enjoying a pool party this Independence Day, it is important to make safety your number one priority. To decrease the chances that your red, white and blue festivities will be interrupted by severe injuries, follow these safety precautions:

Exercise caution when it comes to fireworks. No one should handle fireworks without knowing how to properly handle them, which is why it is often best to attend supervised fireworks displays. Remember, even sparklers which are not technically classified as fireworks can cause major injuries since they can reach temperatures of up to 2,000 degrees. Always keep fireworks away from children, and never allow them to light them off.

Make sure food is prepared properly. Meats and eggs should be cooked thoroughly, while dairy products should be kept chilled. When food is not safely prepared or stored, picnic and barbecue guests can suffer from salmonella or food poisoning.

Drink Responsibly. Alcohol is often included in Independence Day celebrations, and drinking responsibly can help minimize driving accidents and other incidents generally caused by alcohol consumption.

If you’re throwing a backyard barbecue, make sure you set your grill up away from your house or garage and never leave it unattended.

Steer clear of large crowds. Due to alcohol consumption and the heat, large crowds can become disorderly and dangerous fast. Be smart and stay away from these areas. Keep your children close by at all 4th of July events.

Unfortunately, even the strictest safety measures cannot always prevent tragedies from occurring. The Villages Injury Lawyers at Whittel & Melton want you and your loved ones to enjoy your celebration this year, but to also be safe. Should an accident occur, we are available to help.

If you or a loved one is injured this Fourth of July as a result of someone else’s negligent or reckless behavior in Marion, Lake or Sumter County, contact The Villages Injury Attorneys at Whittel & Melton online or call 352-369-5334.

On behalf of all the staff at Whittel & Melton, have a happy and safe Fourth of July!